Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for joining an on-going group call by a push-to-talk (PTT) client in a wireless communication network, the method comprising: identifying whether the PTT client enters a coverage of the on-going group call; transmitting, by the PTT client, a message for requesting information to be used to participate in the on-going group call to one or more PTT clients participating in the on-going group call, in response to the PTT client entering the coverage, the message including a group identification (ID) of the on-going group call; receiving a response message from at least one PTT client among the one or more PTT clients, the at least one PTT client being determined based on a minimum value among the one or more values; and configuring parameters for multimedia data transfer in the on-going group call based on the response message, wherein each of the one or more values is randomly selected for each of the one or more PTT clients.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for enabling a push-to-talk (PTT) client to join an ongoing group call. The problem addressed is the seamless integration of a new PTT client into an existing group call without disrupting the ongoing communication. When a PTT client enters the coverage area of an ongoing group call, it identifies the call and transmits a request message to participating PTT clients. This message includes the group identification (ID) of the ongoing call and seeks information needed to join. The participating clients each randomly select a value, and the client with the smallest value responds to the request. The new PTT client then configures its parameters for multimedia data transfer based on this response, allowing it to participate in the call. This method ensures efficient and non-disruptive entry into the group call by leveraging random value selection to determine the responding client, minimizing coordination overhead. The approach is particularly useful in wireless networks where multiple PTT clients may be involved in group communications, requiring dynamic and scalable solutions for call participation.
2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: transmitting the message including the group identification of the on-going group call if another message is not received for a first period.
This invention relates to group communication systems, specifically methods for managing on-going group calls in wireless networks. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable message transmission in group calls when communication interruptions occur, such as due to network congestion or device failures. The method involves monitoring an on-going group call involving multiple participants. If no additional messages are received from any participant for a predefined first period, the system automatically transmits a message containing the group identification of the on-going call. This ensures that the call status is periodically updated and maintained, preventing disruptions or loss of call continuity. The method may also include detecting the presence of multiple participants in the group call and assigning a unique group identification to the call. This identification is used to track and manage the call across the network. The system may further monitor the call for a second predefined period to determine if the call should be terminated if no activity is detected. The invention improves group communication reliability by proactively maintaining call status through periodic updates, reducing the risk of call drops or failures due to temporary communication gaps. This is particularly useful in wireless environments where signal fluctuations or device disconnections are common.
3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: generating the message based on a session announcement protocol (SAP) packet format.
This invention relates to communication systems, specifically methods for generating and transmitting messages in a network environment. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and standardized message generation in communication protocols, particularly for session announcements. The method involves generating a message using a session announcement protocol (SAP) packet format. SAP is a protocol used to announce multicast sessions to potential participants, allowing them to discover and join ongoing or upcoming sessions. The SAP packet format includes fields for session metadata such as session ID, session description, and timing information, ensuring compatibility with existing SAP-compliant systems. The message generation process may involve encoding session details into the SAP packet structure, including session identifiers, participant information, and session parameters. This ensures that the message adheres to SAP standards, enabling seamless integration with other SAP-compatible devices and systems. The generated message can then be transmitted over a network, allowing recipients to parse and interpret the session details accurately. This approach improves interoperability and reliability in multicast session announcements by leveraging a well-defined protocol format. The use of SAP ensures that session information is structured and transmitted in a way that is easily understood by all participating devices, reducing errors and enhancing communication efficiency.
4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: generating a session description protocol (SDP) body as a SDP offer; and setting up the on-going group call based on the generated SDP body.
This invention relates to communication systems, specifically methods for establishing and managing group calls in real-time communication networks. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable setup of group calls, particularly in scenarios where multiple participants must be synchronized and connected seamlessly. The method involves generating a Session Description Protocol (SDP) body as an SDP offer, which contains the necessary parameters for establishing a communication session. This SDP offer is used to set up an ongoing group call, ensuring that all participants can join and communicate without interruptions. The SDP body includes details such as media formats, network addresses, and session timers, which are essential for coordinating the group call. Additionally, the method may involve managing the group call by monitoring participant status, handling new join requests, and terminating the call when necessary. The system ensures that all participants receive the same media streams and can interact in real-time, even if network conditions vary. The invention improves the reliability and efficiency of group communication by standardizing the setup process and ensuring consistent session management.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: caching a presence of a new PTT client in a contact list if a new message for requesting information to be used to participate in an on-going group call is received from the new PTT client.
This invention relates to push-to-talk (PTT) communication systems, specifically improving group call participation by managing client presence and information requests. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless integration of new PTT clients into ongoing group calls without disrupting the call flow. The solution involves dynamically updating contact lists and handling information requests from new participants. The method includes detecting when a new PTT client joins an ongoing group call and receives a message requesting information needed to participate. The system caches the presence of this new client in the contact lists of existing participants, ensuring they are aware of the new member. This cached presence allows the new client to be recognized and included in the call without requiring manual updates. The method also handles the new client's request for call-specific information, such as current participants or call status, to facilitate smooth participation. By caching the new client's presence and providing necessary information, the system ensures that new participants can join and engage in the group call efficiently, maintaining continuity and minimizing disruptions. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where group calls involve multiple participants and real-time updates are critical.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wireless communication network is in an off-network condition.
This method, described in claim 1, is specifically used when the wireless network is disconnected or unavailable.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the PTT client is a mission critical PTT (MCPTT) client.
A method for enhancing push-to-talk (PTT) communication systems, particularly for mission-critical PTT (MCPTT) applications, addresses the need for reliable, low-latency voice communication in high-stakes environments such as public safety, emergency response, and military operations. Traditional PTT systems often suffer from delays, dropped calls, or poor audio quality, which can be critical in life-or-death situations. The method improves PTT functionality by integrating mission-critical features into the PTT client, ensuring prioritized, secure, and resilient communication. The PTT client, now designated as an MCPTT client, incorporates specialized protocols to handle emergency calls, group communications, and real-time data transmission. It supports features like call preemption, where higher-priority calls interrupt lower-priority ones, and dynamic group management, allowing rapid formation and dissolution of communication groups. The client also ensures end-to-end encryption for secure voice transmission and implements redundancy mechanisms to maintain connectivity even in degraded network conditions. Additionally, the MCPTT client integrates with location-based services to provide real-time tracking of users, enhancing situational awareness. It may also include interoperability features, allowing seamless communication between different PTT systems and networks. By embedding these mission-critical capabilities directly into the PTT client, the method ensures that users in high-risk environments have access to fast, secure, and reliable voice communication when it matters most.
8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the message includes a message identifier hash field including a value of non-zero.
A system and method for secure message transmission involves generating and transmitting messages with enhanced integrity verification. The method includes creating a message containing a message identifier hash field, where the hash field contains a non-zero value. This hash field is derived from a unique identifier associated with the message, ensuring that each message can be distinctly verified. The system may also include generating a digital signature for the message using a private key, where the signature is appended to the message for authentication purposes. Upon receipt, the recipient can verify the message's authenticity by validating the digital signature using a corresponding public key and checking the message identifier hash field to confirm the message's integrity. This approach prevents tampering and ensures that only valid, unaltered messages are processed. The method is particularly useful in secure communication systems where message integrity and authenticity are critical, such as in financial transactions, encrypted messaging, or blockchain applications. The inclusion of a non-zero hash value ensures that the message identifier is properly generated and validated, reducing the risk of processing invalid or corrupted messages.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the multimedia data includes at least one of a mission critical PTT (MCPTT) speech data, audio data, video data, and data for discrete media streams.
This invention relates to multimedia data processing in communication systems, particularly for handling mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) and other discrete media streams. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently managing diverse multimedia data types in real-time communication environments, ensuring reliability and low latency for critical applications. The method involves processing multimedia data that includes at least one of MCPTT speech data, audio data, video data, or data for discrete media streams. The system is designed to support high-priority communication needs, such as emergency services or public safety, where timely and uninterrupted data transmission is essential. The processing may involve encoding, decoding, transmission, or storage of these data types, with mechanisms to prioritize mission-critical content over less urgent streams. The invention ensures that different media types are handled according to their specific requirements, maintaining synchronization and quality for each stream. For example, MCPTT speech data may require ultra-low latency, while video data might need higher bandwidth but can tolerate slight delays. The system dynamically adjusts processing parameters to optimize performance based on the type of multimedia data being handled. This approach enhances communication reliability in scenarios where multiple media streams must coexist, such as in public safety networks or industrial control systems. The solution ensures that critical information is prioritized while maintaining the integrity of all transmitted data.
10. A user equipment (UE) joining an on-going group call by performing a push-to-talk (PTT) in a wireless communication network, the UE comprising: a transceiver; and a processor configured to: identify whether the UE enters a coverage of the on-going group call, control the transceiver to transmit, by the UE, a message for requesting information to be used to participate in a group call to one or more UEs participating in the on-going group call, if the UE enters the coverage, the message including a group identification (ID) of the on-going group call, control the transceiver to receive a response message from at least one UE among the one or more UEs, the at least one UE being determined based on a minimum value among one or more values, and configure parameters for multimedia data transfer in the on-going group call based on the response message, wherein each of the one or more values is randomly selected for each of the one or more UEs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically enabling a user equipment (UE) to join an ongoing group call using push-to-talk (PTT) functionality. The problem addressed is the seamless integration of a new UE into an existing group call without disrupting the ongoing communication. When a UE enters the coverage area of an active group call, it identifies the call and transmits a request message to participating UEs, including the group call's identification (ID). The request seeks information needed to join the call. The participating UEs respond, with the UE selecting the response from the participant that randomly selected the smallest value among the group. This ensures a fair and distributed selection process. The joining UE then configures its parameters for multimedia data transfer based on the received response, allowing it to participate in the ongoing call. The system avoids centralized coordination, reducing latency and improving efficiency in dynamic group communication scenarios.
11. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to transmit the message including the group identification of the on-going group call if another message is not received for a first period.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to user equipment (UE) handling in group call scenarios. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable group call participation by UEs when network conditions may cause message delays or losses. The invention describes a UE configured to monitor for incoming messages during an ongoing group call. If the UE does not receive any message for a predefined first period, it automatically transmits a message containing the group identification of the ongoing call. This proactive transmission helps maintain call continuity by preventing the network or other participants from assuming the UE has dropped the call due to inactivity. The UE may also be configured to adjust its behavior based on received messages, such as modifying transmission intervals or call parameters. The solution improves group call reliability by reducing false disconnections and ensuring UEs remain synchronized with the call group. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where network conditions are unstable or message delivery is unreliable, such as in emergency communications or large-scale group calls.
12. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to generate the message based on a session announcement protocol (SAP) packet format.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the need for efficient session management and signaling in multimedia broadcast and multicast services (MBMS). The UE includes a processor configured to generate a message for session announcement, where the message is formatted according to a session announcement protocol (SAP) packet structure. The SAP packet format ensures compatibility with existing broadcast systems while enabling dynamic session announcements, allowing UEs to discover and join ongoing multicast sessions without prior configuration. The processor may also handle session parameters such as session identifiers, timing information, and service descriptions, ensuring seamless integration with network infrastructure. The invention improves session discovery and participation in MBMS, reducing signaling overhead and enhancing user experience in multicast environments. The UE may further validate session announcements before processing, ensuring only authorized or relevant sessions are considered. This approach optimizes resource usage and supports scalable multicast services in wireless networks.
13. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to generate a session description protocol (SDP) body as a SDP offer and set up the on-going group call based on the generated SDP body.
This invention relates to group communication in wireless networks, specifically improving the setup and management of group calls in user equipment (UE) devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable establishment of group communication sessions, particularly in scenarios where multiple participants must be synchronized for real-time voice or data exchange. The UE includes a processor configured to manage group call sessions by generating a Session Description Protocol (SDP) body as an SDP offer. This SDP offer contains the necessary parameters to initiate and configure the group call, including media formats, network addresses, and session timers. The processor then uses this SDP offer to establish the on-going group call, ensuring all participants can join and communicate seamlessly. The SDP offer may include details such as codecs, bandwidth requirements, and session identifiers to facilitate proper session negotiation and synchronization among group members. This approach enhances the reliability and efficiency of group call setup by standardizing the session description process, reducing setup delays, and ensuring compatibility across different network conditions. The invention is particularly useful in mission-critical communication systems where timely and coordinated group interactions are essential.
14. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the processor is further configured to cache a presence of a new PTT client in a contact list if a new message for requesting information to be used to participate in an on-going group call is received from the new PTT client.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in a push-to-talk (PTT) communication system, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing group call participation for new users. The UE includes a processor configured to handle PTT communications, including group calls. When a new PTT client joins an ongoing group call, the UE receives a message from the new client requesting information needed to participate. The processor caches the presence of this new client in the contact list, ensuring that the user is aware of the new participant and can interact with them seamlessly. This caching mechanism helps maintain an up-to-date contact list, improving user experience by providing real-time visibility of group call participants. The system ensures that new participants are integrated smoothly into the ongoing call without disrupting the existing communication flow. The invention enhances group call management by dynamically updating the contact list to reflect new participants, facilitating better coordination and interaction among users.
15. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the wireless communication network is in an off-network condition.
A wireless communication system includes a user equipment (UE) device configured to operate in an off-network condition, where the UE is not actively connected to a cellular network. The UE includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the UE to perform specific functions. These functions include detecting an off-network condition, where the UE is not registered with a wireless communication network or lacks a valid network connection. In response to detecting this condition, the UE initiates a local communication mode, enabling direct communication with other nearby devices without relying on a cellular network. The UE may use short-range wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or other peer-to-peer protocols to establish connections with other devices in the vicinity. The system may also include a network server that, when the UE regains network connectivity, receives and processes data collected during the off-network period. This allows the UE to operate autonomously in areas with poor or no network coverage while ensuring data synchronization once connectivity is restored. The invention improves reliability and functionality in scenarios where traditional network-dependent communication is unavailable.
16. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the UE is a mission critical PTT (MCPTT) client.
A mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) system enables real-time voice communication for public safety and emergency services. Traditional MCPTT clients face challenges in efficiently managing group calls, prioritizing urgent communications, and ensuring reliable connectivity in high-stress environments. This invention addresses these issues by enhancing the functionality of a user equipment (UE) device acting as an MCPTT client. The UE is configured to support mission-critical communication features, including group call management, priority handling, and seamless handover between networks. It includes mechanisms for rapid call setup, dynamic group membership adjustments, and robust error recovery to maintain communication integrity during critical operations. The UE also integrates with network infrastructure to optimize resource allocation and minimize latency, ensuring timely and reliable voice transmission. Additionally, the device may support supplementary services such as location tracking, emergency alerts, and interoperability with other emergency response systems. By improving call reliability and reducing setup delays, this invention enhances the effectiveness of MCPTT services for first responders and emergency personnel.
17. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the message includes a message identifier hash field including a value of non-zero.
A system and method for enhancing message integrity verification in wireless communication networks, particularly in scenarios involving user equipment (UE) and network nodes. The invention addresses the challenge of ensuring reliable message authentication and integrity in wireless communications, where message tampering or spoofing can disrupt network operations. The UE generates and transmits a message that includes a message identifier hash field containing a non-zero value. This hash field is derived from a cryptographic hash function applied to the message content, ensuring that any alteration to the message will result in a detectable mismatch. The non-zero value indicates that the message has been properly hashed and authenticated, distinguishing it from unprocessed or corrupted messages. The UE may also include additional security parameters, such as sequence numbers or timestamps, to further validate the message's origin and freshness. The network node receiving the message verifies the hash field to confirm the message's integrity before processing it. This approach mitigates risks of unauthorized modifications and enhances the security of wireless communications. The invention is particularly applicable in 5G and beyond networks, where secure and efficient message handling is critical for maintaining network reliability and user trust.
18. The UE of claim 10 , wherein the multimedia data includes at least one of a mission critical PTT (MCPTT) speech data, audio data, video data, and data for discrete media streams.
This invention relates to user equipment (UE) in wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the handling of multimedia data for mission-critical applications. The problem solved is the efficient transmission and processing of diverse multimedia data types in real-time communication scenarios, particularly for mission-critical push-to-talk (MCPTT) services and other high-priority applications. The UE is configured to process and transmit multimedia data, which may include mission-critical PTT speech data, audio data, video data, or data for discrete media streams. The system ensures reliable and low-latency delivery of these data types, which are critical for applications such as emergency services, public safety, and industrial communications. The UE may prioritize or manage these data streams based on their type and urgency, optimizing network resources while maintaining quality of service. The invention also involves techniques for encoding, decoding, and synchronizing these multimedia streams to ensure seamless communication. For example, the UE may handle MCPTT speech data with minimal delay, while simultaneously managing video or audio streams with appropriate buffering and synchronization. The system may also support discrete media streams, allowing for flexible and efficient transmission of segmented or time-sensitive data. Overall, the invention enhances the capability of UEs to handle diverse multimedia data in mission-critical environments, ensuring robust and efficient communication for time-sensitive applications.
Unknown
July 14, 2020
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